Rip current warning for Treasure Coast beaches

 STUART, FLA.  A rip current advisory is in effect for parts of Florida's coast, including Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River Counties.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service say the dangerous currents are a product of swells from Hurricane Leslie, which is moving north toward Bermuda.

The strongest rip currents are expected to take place in mid to late afternoon.

Rip currents, described as channels of water flowing rapidly from shore,  can be extremely powerful and pull swimmers away from land.

They often are found in low spots, near jetties and piers as well as breaks in a sandbar.

Experts say if you are ever caught in a rip current don't panic. They advise you to swim parallel to shore until the current loosens its grip and never swim in an area without lifeguards.

Swimming against a rip current can easily tire you and leave you exhausted.